Charles Edward "Charlie" Pellino, Jr.

Charles Edward "Charlie" Pellino, Jr.

May 02, 1943 - March 27, 2025

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Obituary

SUN PRAIRIE - Charles Edward “Charlie” Pellino Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on May 2, 1943, in Chicago, Ill., to Charles and Ella (DiDomenico) Pellino, Charlie's journey through life was marked by love, and an unwavering dedication to those he held dear.


In 1948, the Pellino family moved to Lee Street in Des Plaines, Ill., where Charlie's story truly began. He attended Notre Dame High School in Niles, Ill., from 1958 to 1961, forming lifelong friendships with a remarkable group of friends. In 1961, Charlie embarked on a new chapter at Drake University, where he joined the Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) Fraternity and met the love of his life, Melinda Poorman, while building a parade float.


After graduating from Drake, Charlie pursued his passion for law at the University of Wisconsin Law School in Madison. His career as a trial attorney began at McAndrews, Fritschler and Huggett, where he honed his skills in criminal defense. For 57 years, Charlie practiced law, most notably as the senior partner at Pellino, Rosen, Mowris & Kirkhuff, S.C. His legal expertise was often called upon by his children and their friends, earning him the affectionate moniker "Mr. P" among the youth he defended.


Charlie cherished his Vegas trips with friends and enjoyed golfing as a member of Blackhawk, Cherokee, and eventually Maple Bluff. He found joy in spending time with his family in Hilton Head, S.C., especially with his grandchildren. A devoted sports fan, Charlie was convinced he could call plays better than the Packers Offensive Coordinator.


Charlie is survived by his adoring wife of 58 years, Melinda; his children, Chuck (Sandy) Pellino, Tracy (John) Krenek and Bill (Heather) Pellino; and his grandchildren, Megan Pellino, Brennen and Ellyse Pellino, and Kennedy and Anthony Krenek. He also leaves behind his brothers, Tom (Michelle) and Rob (Bea); his sister, Peggy Kunzer; and numerous other relatives and friends, especially his 4 year old neighbor, Alden, and his sister, Camille. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ricky; and his sister-in-law, Terri.


True to his no-fuss nature, Charlie requested a celebration of life to be held in the summer. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude or Ronald McDonald House - Madison. Charlie's family extends heartfelt gratitude to Agrace HospiceCare in Fitchburg and the amazing nurses who cared for him with love and compassion.


Charlie Pellino's legacy of love, laughter, and loyalty will forever be cherished by all who knew him. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420




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Naomi Speiss
Other •
Chuck was so dear to our family. Our kids adored him and loved sitting with him on his porch and chatting. They had such a special relationship and the love went both ways. We will miss him terribly but are thankful for the great memories he has given our family and the love he shared with us.
A
Ann
Other •
It was my honor to meet Charlie and family, especially conversing with Tracy, near the end of his life. How special to read the wonderful obituary about his happy and successful life. Speak often about him amongst yourselves and with the children. He lives in your hearts and recalling special memories will be healing through your grief walk. Ann
BG
Bob Gonzalez
Other •
I had many interactions with Charlie with my referrals to him for tax and other matters. He was always great to work with and one of the most down to earth attorneys I worked with. Bob Gonzalez
CC
Chad Callahan
Other •
Always enjoyed my time with Mr. And Mrs. P as a friend of Billy’s growing up in SP. Conversations with Mr. P were to the point and not sugar coated but always with some humor and knowing that he cared for you. They don’t make many like Mr. P and more like him would make this world a better place. Love you Mr Pellino. Best wishes to the Pellino family. We love all of you too.
DS
Dave Schutz
Other •
Missed? Putting it mildly! Sue and I were lucky to travel the world with Charlie and Melinda and often he was my co-pilot! He gave me the words and the Italian flavor to properly get engaged at the Dessert Inn, He and Melinda and Sue crewed the boat as we navigated the canals of England and we were all on board as we paddled under the Reolta Bridge as the tenor sang New York, New York!! Missed? Yes we all miss him and his wisdom and humor for the rest of our lives! Looking forward to when we meet again! Your Friend
NW
Nancy Wettersten
Other •
I had the great privilege of practicing law with Chuck in the 1990s. I remember his kindness, his generosity and his wicked sense of humor. My deepest sympathies, Melinda.

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